Design and evaluation of an encapsulated artificial disc

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Alnaimat, Feras Adnan Mohammad (2018). Design and evaluation of an encapsulated artificial disc. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Artificial discs have been developed to replace and restore motion to degenerated intervertebral discs. The most common configuration for these devices include ball and socket articulation surfaces that can induce high frictional torques and wear rates. When these particles interact with the surrounding tissues they can induce inflammations leading to osteolysis, subsidence of the implant and then revision surgery.

A new device has been developed to reduce friction and eliminate wear migration that incorporates an elastomer sheath to encapsulate the disc, retaining debris and an optimised bio-lubricant. The artificial disc has been assessed with an experimental programme that compared the resistive torques of the artificial discs both with and without encapsulation, for a range of motions. Durability tests were also conducted to 2M cycles and gravimetric wear rate was measured in accordance with BS 18192-1: 2011. Encapsulating the articulating surfaces reduced resistive torques and completely eliminated debris migration. Wear rates within the sheath ranged from 10.1 to 11.3 mg/million cycles, well within acceptable levels for this type of device.

The encapsulated discs successfully contained all wear debris and displayed durability in excess of 2M accelerated life cycles. The concept of an encapsulated artificial disc has been shown to be feasible and could replace current technologies.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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